Egbetokun deploys additional police officers to Rivers

Kayode Egbetokun, the inspector-general of police, has directed the immediate deployment of additional personnel to Rivers state.

The directive comes days after President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in the oil-rich state over political and security instability.

A statement issued on Friday by Muyiwa Adejobi, the police spokesperson, said the operatives will collaborate with the armed forces and other security agencies to bolster security and protect lives and property in Rivers.

“The series of events that cumulated into this declaration were direct consequences of the political crisis that has engulfed the state in the last 22 months. These events have clearly made out a case of a state that has reached a tipping point, necessitating a timely intervention to avert a total breakdown of law and order in Rivers state which could have broader implications for national security,” the statement reads.

“In response, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun has ordered the immediate deployment of additional personnel and resources to Rivers state. This effort, undertaken in collaboration with the armed forces and other security agencies, is intended to bolster security, protect lives and property, and secure critical infrastructure in the state.”

The police advised aggrieved individuals to seek legal redress through the appropriate judicial channels.

“Consequently, any attempt to exploit the situation through unlawful gatherings, protests, or activities to disrupt public peace will be met with the full force of the law. Citizens are urged to remain law-abiding, comply with all legal directives, and continue their daily activities without fear,” the statement added.

The federal government had deployed 10,000 personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to curb attacks on oil pipelines in the state.

Afolabi Babawale, the NSCDC spokesperson, said the operatives were tasked with protecting critical infrastructure and preventing pipeline vandalism.